Event Recap: DOPE Industry Awards – Washington 2017

The biggest night in the Washington Cannabis Industry was once again celebrated as the DOPE Industry Awards (DIA’s) went down for the fifth consecutive year. The December tradition was held at a brand new venue; the Seattle Design Center, that wowed guests with its dramatic backdrop setting the stage for the “Oscars of the Cannabis Industry.”

A 100 foot red carpet, hosted by Kitty Kitty Bang Bang, greeted guests as they arrived. Once seated nominees were treated to goodie bags stuffed with great gifts from sponsors and DOPE Magazine. The show kicked off with a rousing monologue from the evening’s MC Mikey McClarron from Craving Amazing and vibes were in full swing with live music from the band Roman and the Whereabouts.

Highlights of the night included a new Trail Blazer award that was given to Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes who graciously accepted it from DOPE Magazine’s co-founder David Tran. The Male Budtender of the Year award was presented by the mother and family of deceased budtender Cameron Smith who received a standing ovation from the audience, many of whom came together to support Cameron’s family after Cameron’s untimely death. The award was renamed the “Cameron Smith Award” in honor of his impact on his community and cannabis customers.

The night would not have been possible without the support of the amazing sponsors. The Presenting Sponsor, Ionic, brought its full branding power with two amazing ice sculptures that adorned the entry and mezzanine. The bar sponsor, Shop CBD Now created a collection of incredible CBD cocktails that allowed guests to imbibe in wellness. Supporting sponsors included Filter420, Mammoth Labs, Hollyweed North, Pearl2o, Tokem Cannabis and Gaga Extracts & Edibles all contributed amazing gifts for guests to enjoy.

As a lifestyle publication, DOPE Magazine is dedicated to creating purposeful, relevant conversations. When we printed our inaugural issue in 2011 we positioned ourselves in the cannabis arena as a team of professionals determined to normalize the plant. While cannabis remains the central theme of our brand, 2017 has marked a turning point in our progression. We’ve built a steadfast framework of inclusivity when speaking about gender, race, class, politics, family and culture—with the ethos DEFEND.